Dentists have numerous ways to repair teeth and improve the look of your smile. There are veneers, implants, braces, teeth whitening and even dental surgery. All them are useful for certain dental problems or cosmetic fixes. Here, we’ll take a look at bonding for teeth.
Uses
Bonding is a resin that can be applied to teeth and can be used for cosmetic fixes, such as discolored teeth, as well as fix chipped or broken teeth. It is sometimes used to protect roots that have been exposed from receding gums or as an alternative to amalgam fillings. Bonding can also be used to lengthen teeth and to close gaps.
Process
Bonding is an outpatient procedure that does not typically require anesthetic. The resin for bonding comes in different shades so it can be matched to your teeth color. You dentist will start by roughing up the tooth and then applying a conditioner that helps the resin bond to the tooth. The resin putty can be molded into the proper shape needed to fix your tooth or teeth. A UV light or laser is used to harden the resin and then the dentist will do a final shaping and polish.
After Care
It is important not to eat or drink foods that will stain the resin for the first 48 hours after the procedure. This includes coffee or tea as well as smoking. After that time, you should care for the bonded teeth in the same way you care for all you teeth, with proper brushing and regular cleanings by a hygienist.
Risks
As a rather inexpensive cosmetic dental procedure, the main drawback to bonding is that it may not last as long as other types of repairs for your teeth. They are designed to last several years, but the bonding is not as strong as your natural teeth, so you will want to avoid biting into something like ice or chewing your fingernails. Taking proper care of your teeth can help your bonding procedure last longer before it needs repairs.
Benefits
Besides being less expensive than other procedures, one of the great benefits of bonding is how quickly it can be done. It typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of teeth you are having done. There is not preparation for the procedure, you simply make the appointment and show up.
To find out if bonding is the right dental solution for you, please visit our website.